Bell plots direct satellite service launch in 2026

Operator Bell Canada advanced its satellite connectivity ambitions by placing a VoLTE call to standard smartphones using AST SpaceMobile BlueBird low Earth orbit satellites.

The testing schedule also involved a video call, transmitting broadband data, video streaming, SMS and emergency alerts.

Bell stated the VoLTE element is a first in Canada and the series of tests position it to launch a commercial satellite service in 2026, with coverage reaching north of the 59th parallel and into coastal maritime zones.

The commercial service is set to cover 5.7 million square kms using Bell’s own terrestrial base stations.

Mark McDonald, EVP and CTO of Bell, said the tests capitalise on investments the operator began making in AST SpaceMobile in 2021. He predicted “significant possibilities for enterprises including remote operations and monitoring in sectors like natural resources, energy and the environment, providing critical data and enabling new efficiencies for Canadian businesses”.

Bell stated the satellite capability would also boost emergency response services and improve remote operations in industries including mining, forestry, agriculture and energy.

It also expects a connectivity bump for residential customers.

AST SpaceMobile CCO Chris Ivory said the tests are a “breakthrough achievement” in the companies’ mission to “bring the benefits of cellular broadband to Canadians”.

Canadian rival Rogers Communications beta-launched a direct-to-device messaging service earlier this year, with a target of moving to a full service this month and ultimately offering connectivity for apps, data and voice services.